Malignant mesothelioma is a very rare cancer that often has a poor outlook in cancer treatment. Immunotherapy, especially in the form of immune checkpoint inhibitors, has brought hope. It shows the potential for better outcomes in mesothelioma patients. A new article in Open Respiratory Archives provides a history of recent advances in immunotherapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma patients.
Mesothelioma starts in pleural cavity cells and mainly comes from asbestos exposure. There are three cell types of mesothelioma including epithelioid, sarcomatoid, and biphasic. The cell type of mesothelioma determines its diversity and complexity. Treatments have the ability to use the immune system or genetic information of a person to help boost treatment effectiveness. Immunotherapy can be an effective tool when treating pleural mesothelioma. Immunotherapy is also known as biological therapy, utilizing the patient’s own immune system to treat mesothelioma. These treatments typically attempt to stimulate an immune response in the patient’s body to fight the cancer. Several of these methods have been tried in treating pleural mesothelioma.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are changing cancer treatment. Checkpoint inhibitors use the immune system against cancer. Trials with PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors are promising for the treatment of mesothelioma. The two inhibitors, nivolumab and ipilimumab, when combined, boost survival. This is good news for patients with advanced mesothelioma. New technology has also revealed the complex genes behind mesothelioma. Knowing this can help doctors and researchers identify possible treatments. Mutations in CDKN2A, NF2, and BAP1 guide research and lead to advanced treatments. Knowing these genetic details is crucial for tailoring specific treatments to mesothelioma patients.
Mesothelioma is a challenging cancer to treat, but immunotherapy is making a big difference by boosting survival. More research is needed though to find markers and resistance factors. This research will also optimize treatments for patients. Teamwork and research are key to a better future for mesothelioma patients. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a tough cancer to treat, however, immunotherapy offers new hope for patients. We continue to learn about the disease’s molecules and are learning to harness the immune system more effectively. This progress allows for customized treatments. Our dedication and teamwork will open new ways to fight and beat this cancer.
This is why cancer research is so important. Without cancer research, we would not be creating effective treatments for mesothelioma patients. Cancer research needs to continue for the betterment of cancer treatments and hopefully the betterment of cancer patients’ lives. Maybe one day mesothelioma will be a cancer of the past due to cancer research and immunotherapy.
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